Vodafone boost for community

COMMUNITY groups across Reading and West Berkshire have received a cash boost worth thousands of pounds from telecommunications giant Vodafone.

The firm has given out £79,000 - including almost £10,000 to help finance an arts scheme with Reading Single Homeless Project (RSHP). The charity in Merchant's Place will team up with the Bagnor-based Watermill Theatre to set up an interactive show at primary and secondary schools.

The aim of the The Roof Project, is to encourage youngsters to think about homelessness.

The Berkshire Autistic Society, which assists people with autism and their families, has received £2,500 from the Newbury-based firm to produce and distribute a newsletter.

More than £16,500 has gone to The Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust to extend its Family Watch Membership Scheme.

Sarah Shillito, senior manager at the Vodafone UK Foundation, said: "We are delighted to be

associated with these local organisations that give people in the area the opportunity to lead fuller lives.

"As a member of both the Berkshire and Oxfordshire

communities, the Vodafone UK Foundation is keen to support charitable organisations in these areas."